Hefring Marine and Ecomar Propulsion partner to deploy monitoring system on hydrogen-electric vessel

Hefring Marine and Ecomar Propulsion have entered into a product development partnership to integrate vessel monitoring technology with electric and hydrogen propulsion systems.

Under the agreement, Hefring Marine will install its Intelligent Marine Assistance System (IMAS) onboard MV Dirac, a hydrogen battery-powered vessel operated by Ecomar Propulsion. The deployment marks the first application of Hefring’s monitoring system on an electric vessel platform.

Monitoring technology for next-generation vessels

The IMAS system is designed to provide real-time data on sea conditions, vessel motion and operational parameters. The integration aims to support crew decision-making, improve onboard safety and enhance operational efficiency, particularly for vessels using emerging propulsion technologies.

Karl Birgir Björnsson, CEO of Hefring Marine, said:

“We are excited to partner with Ecomar Propulsion on this project. Electric and hydrogen-powered vessels represent the future of maritime operations, and ensuring their crews have access to real-time environmental and motion data is essential for safe and efficient operations. The MV Dirac provides an ideal platform to demonstrate how our technology can enhance comfort and safety in this new generation of sustainable workboats.”

Test platform for propulsion and energy systems

The MV Dirac is designed as a test vessel for hydrogen-electric propulsion, energy management and control systems. The integration of IMAS will enable continuous monitoring during operations, supporting both onboard crews and shore-based management.

Eugene Bari, CEO of Ecomar Propulsion, said:

“We are the experts in electric drives and energy management, and the IMAS system complements our core activities. We are delighted to be able to showcase this new technology using our vessel and believe this partnership will deliver valuable insights for the entire industry as we pioneer the next generation of electric maritime operations.”

The collaboration reflects ongoing efforts within the maritime sector to combine digital monitoring systems with alternative propulsion technologies as part of broader decarbonisation strategies.